Tensionable Knotless Anchor With Multi-Limb Locking Splice
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for soft tissue repair to bone often require knots, which can be time-consuming and may not allow for adequate tension adjustment, limiting their effectiveness and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The development of tensionable knotless anchors with a multi-limb suture locking mechanism through a single splice, utilizing a flexible strand and a shuttle/pull device to create adjustable loops without the need for knots, allowing for secure fixation and adjustable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If knots are used for soft tissue repair, then secure fixation is achieved, but surgical time increases and tension adjustment is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the knot-tying step from the fixation process by using a pre-formed loop structure that eliminates the need for traditional knot tying. The suture is configured with a loop that can be directly engaged with the bone anchor, removing the time-consuming knotting operation while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The suture is pre-configured with a loop structure before insertion, allowing the tensioning and fixation to be achieved in a single action rather than requiring post-insertion knot tying. This preliminary preparation enables faster surgical execution while ensuring proper tension is established beforehand.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional suture methods are used, then soft tissue can be repaired, but tension adjustment capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a dynamic tensioning mechanism where the suture loop can be adjusted after insertion to achieve optimal tension. The construct allows for post-operative tension adjustment by manipulating the suture ends, enabling adaptation to varying tissue requirements while maintaining a simple insertion procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The suture construct allows modification of the tension parameter after implantation. By pulling on the free ends of the suture, the tension in the repaired tissue can be adjusted to the desired level, providing versatility in tension control without complicating the initial surgical procedure.
3Reliability
If multiple splices are used to create multi-limb sutures, then secure locking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple suture limbs into a single integrated construct with one splice point. Instead of creating separate splices for each limb, the design combines all limbs into a unified structure where a single splice locks all limbs simultaneously, reducing complexity while maintaining locking security.
Solution Approach 2:
The single splice mechanism serves multiple functions by simultaneously locking all suture limbs in one location. This universal locking point replaces the need for individual splices on each limb, simplifying the overall device structure while ensuring reliable fixation of all tissue strands.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems for soft tissue to bone repairs, without knot tying. Soft tissue repair systems include self-cinching constructs with a fixation device, a flexible strand with multiple flexible limbs, and a shuttle/pull device attached to the flexible strand to shuttle the multiple flexible limbs through the flexible strand and form a locking splice.